she said why obama had decided to issue the reassurance. there are probable no broader attacks, no more anywhere in the u.s. that is reassuring. here in washington, the public is wary, and they dominate what the congress is talking about. >> reporter: big issues like gun control are out of the spotlight. the horrifying attack dominates the americans' attention, but pulls americans together. this is the chicago tribute, solidarity, from one area to another. in pain. citing how bostonians rushed in to help the injured. president obama sent a message of solidarity and defiance. >> you want to know who we are and who america is, how we respond to evil? that is it. selfless selflessly, compassionatly. >> reporter: any time bombs are used, it is an act of terror, he says, the lawmaker got an intel briefing last week. >> there was no evidence at all, no intelligence that seemed to be out there. >> reporter: the top senate republican was critical. >> i think it is safe to say that for many, the complacency prior to september 11th, has actually retu